Around six, Julie calls. She thanks me for the report, says, “That’s fine work, except for the part where you roughed up the security guard.”
“I didn’t have any choice.”
“You could have found a different way into the club.”
“Where’s the fun in that?”
“And that’s what I mean about most of your day being good work, but not all.”
“I got some useful stuff on Tamerlan.”
“Maybe,” Julie says. “You’re more convinced of his involvement than I am. Clearly, he’s connected, but I don’t know that he’s at the center of things.”
“He’s up to his eyeballs in this. All roads will lead to him.”
“I think you have a problem with necromancers and it might color your work. Don’t let your prejudices lead the investigation.”
“Got it. But I’m not wrong about Tamerlan.”
“I don’t know why I bother talking to you sometimes.”
“Hey, I’m listening, but sleuthing isn’t my style. You’re going to have to cut me some slack while I ease into it.”
“I’m doing my best. Anyway, get to bed early tonight. I have a surprise for you in the morning. Come by the office tomorrow about nine, and bring your guest. You’ll enjoy this. We’re all going on a little field trip.”
“Where?”
“You’ll see.”
“It sounds like fun.”
No. It doesn’t.
“Oh, and one more thing. You and Candy should be sure to bring your guns.”
“Now it sounds like fun.”
“Do you have anything else to tell me? Anything that didn’t make it into your report?”
“Yes. His name is Vincent.”
“Whose name?”
“The guest. He’s going by Vincent these days.”
“Charming. Was that his idea?”
“Not entirely. But he likes it.”
“How’s he holding up?”
“Not so good. We need to speed things up. If this is going to be a prestige job, we don’t want to solve the mystery but lose the client.”
“Nine o’clock tomorrow, on the dot.”
“Got it.”
“And, Stark . . .”